Definition
A method of education in which the student and instructor are physically separated, with instruction delivered through electronic media, printed materials, or a combination of both, allowing the student to study at a remote location rather than in a traditional classroom.
Plain English
Learning that happens without the student and teacher being in the same room. The lessons are delivered through computers, video, online courses, or mailed materials, so the student can study from home or anywhere else.
Context Anchor
Seen in aviation instructor discussions about online ground training, remote briefings, and electronic learning programs.
Derivation
From 'distance' (the space between two points) and 'learning' (gaining knowledge or skill). The phrase highlights that physical separation between teacher and student is the defining feature.
Why Pilots Care
It offers scheduling flexibility for busy students while still meeting FAA training standards when properly structured.
Intuition Check
Distance learning does not mean the student is simply left alone to figure it out. In this context, it means instruction is delivered while the instructor and student are separated by location.
Example Sentence 1
She completed her private pilot ground school through a distance learning program before attending flight lessons at the local airport.
Example Sentence 2
Many pilot candidates complete their ground school through distance learning to fit training around work schedules.